College Football Preview: South Carolina seeks legitimacy in SEC

The South Carolina Gamecocks are coming off a solid year (11-2, 6-2 SEC) that was overshadowed by the SEC elite.

For South Carolina Head Coach Steve Spurrier, his priorities aren’t torn when it comes to his football team and either winning the SEC or beating Clemson.

He said, “I’d rather win the SEC, I don’t mind saying that. Personally, that’s the bigger trophy. But if we’re not quite good enough, if it doesn’t work out, we’re not going to hang our hat and say, we’re not going to win the SEC. But there’s other things out there.”

In terms of rebuilding, Spurrier will have his hands full. Sure, there are 15 returning starters but those players who have moved on to the NFL include quarterback Connor Shaw, linebacker Jadeveon Clowney and defensive tackle Kelcy Quarles.

Senior quarterback Dylan Thompson will be throwing to receivers Pharoh Cooper, Damiere Byrd and Shaq Roland, while running the ball is the dynamic Mike Davis.

While the offense should be fine, it’s the defense that has plenty of question marks. The hope is linebacker Sharrod Golightly and cornerback Brison Williams will become team leaders.

Considering the fact the team is rebuilding, which can be viewed as blood in the water in the competitive SEC, South Carolina appears to be a long shot – at best – to be a part of the first ever College Football Playoff.

ODDS to win the National Championship: 33/1